Ground Beef Orzo Creamy is a delightful dish that combines the comforting textures of orzo pasta with the rich flavors of seasoned ground beef and a creamy tomato sauce. This recipe is perfect for family dinners and can be prepared in just 45 minutes. The melding of flavors creates a hearty meal that everyone will enjoy, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or relaxed weekends.

Why You’ll Love This Ground Beef Orzo Creamy

This Ground Beef Orzo Creamy recipe is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. Here are several reasons why you will adore it:

• Quick preparation time, perfect for a quick ground beef orzo dinner.
• Rich in flavors, making it a comfort food ground beef orzo favorite.
• Kid-friendly, appealing to even the pickiest eaters.
• One-pot cooking method reduces cleanup time.
• Healthy option by using lean ground beef and fresh ingredients.
• Great for meal prep, ensuring you have a delicious meal ready.

Ingredients for Ground Beef Orzo Creamy

Gather these items:

• 1 lb lean ground beef
• 1 cup orzo pasta
• 1 cup tomato sauce
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1 onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt to taste
• Pepper to taste
• Italian seasoning to taste
• Fresh herbs like basil or parsley (optional)

How to Make Ground Beef Orzo Creamy Step-by-Step

1. Step 1: Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. Add the orzo and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving a cup of pasta water.
2. Step 2: In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onions and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until translucent. Stir in minced garlic, cooking for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Step 3: Increase the heat slightly and add the ground beef to the skillet. Cook until browned, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon, about 6-8 minutes. Drain any excess fat if necessary.
4. Step 4: Pour in the tomato sauce, stirring to combine. Let it simmer for about 5 minutes to meld the flavors.
5. Step 5: Lower the heat and slowly stir in the heavy cream. Allow the mixture to simmer for another 3-5 minutes, letting it thicken slightly.
6. Step 6: Stir in the cooked orzo, mixing until everything is well coated. If the sauce is too thick, add some reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
7. Step 7: Add salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning to taste. Stir in any fresh herbs if using.
8. Step 8: Plate the dish and garnish with extra herbs or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese if desired. Enjoy your hearty meal!

Pro Tips for the Best Ground Beef Orzo Creamy

Keep these in mind:

• Use lean ground beef to keep the dish healthier.
• Don’t skip the reserved pasta water; it helps in adjusting the sauce consistency.
• Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for added nutrition.

Best Ways to Serve Ground Beef Orzo Creamy

Here are a few serving ideas:

• Pair with a crisp green salad for a complete meal.
• Top with shredded cheese and fresh herbs for added flavor.

How to Store and Reheat Ground Beef Orzo Creamy

To store leftovers, place them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or cream if needed.

Frequently Asked Questions About Ground Beef Orzo Creamy

What’s the secret to perfect Ground Beef Orzo Creamy?

The secret lies in cooking the orzo al dente and ensuring the sauce is well blended with the beef. This ensures a creamy texture that complements the orzo perfectly.

Can I make Ground Beef Orzo Creamy ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare this dish ahead of time. Just reheat it before serving. It’s perfect for meal prep!

How do I avoid common mistakes with Ground Beef Orzo Creamy?

To avoid common mistakes, ensure you don’t overcook the orzo and adjust the sauce consistency as needed to keep it creamy.

Variations of Ground Beef Orzo Creamy You Can Try

Consider these variations:

• Add diced tomatoes or bell peppers for extra veggies.
• Use ground turkey for a lighter option.
• Incorporate different herbs like thyme or oregano for varied flavors.

For more delicious recipes, check out homemade tomato sauce or pappardelle with beef ragu. You can also explore Mediterranean chickpea salad for a refreshing side dish.

Ground Beef Orzo Creamy: 7 Comforting Family Meals

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• Author: Jessica
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Diet: Low Calorie

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Description

Delicious Ground Beef Orzo in Creamy Tomato Sauce Recipe

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Ingredients

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• 1 lb lean ground beef
• 1 cup orzo pasta
• 1 cup tomato sauce
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1 onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt to taste
• Pepper to taste
• Italian seasoning to taste
• Fresh herbs like basil or parsley (optional)

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Instructions

1. Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. Add the orzo and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving a cup of pasta water.
2. In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onions and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until translucent. Stir in minced garlic, cooking for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Increase the heat slightly and add the ground beef to the skillet. Cook until browned, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon, about 6-8 minutes. Drain any excess fat if necessary.
4. Pour in the tomato sauce, stirring to combine. Let it simmer for about 5 minutes to meld the flavors.
5. Lower the heat and slowly stir in the heavy cream. Allow the mixture to simmer for another 3-5 minutes, letting it thicken slightly.
6. Stir in the cooked orzo, mixing until everything is well coated. If the sauce is too thick, add some reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
7. Add salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning to taste. Stir in any fresh herbs if using.
8. Plate the dish and garnish with extra herbs or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese if desired. Enjoy your hearty meal!

Notes

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Category: Main Dish
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 550
• Sugar: 6 g
• Sodium: 800 mg
• Fat: 30 g
• Saturated Fat: 15 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 45 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Protein: 25 g
• Cholesterol: 80 mg